Merited (Performing) Artist of Ukraine (Ukrainian: Заслужений артист України) is a state honorary title of decoration awarded by the Ukrainian SSR and later Ukraine for outstanding achievement in the performing arts. It is regulated by the Law of Ukraine Regarding the State Awards of Ukraine (#1549-14).

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The title is the state award of Ukraine that is given for the personal merit by the State of Ukraine to citizens who have worked in their respective economic or socio-cultural fields as a rule for no less than ten (10) years, obtaining high on-the-job achievements and professional mastery.

The title is awarded by the President of Ukraine. It is given to citizens of Ukraine, foreigners, and persons with no citizenship.[1] This title is lower than the People's Artist of Ukraine which can only be awarded ten (10) years after obtaining the Merited Artist of Ukraine. This title is not awarded posthumously. All recipients must have completed Tertiary studies.

The Merited Artist of Ukraine can be awarded to motion picture directors; actors of theatres, films, and circus; singers; members of professional ensembles and chorus'; orchestral conductors; composers; musicians; TV and Radio network broadcasters for their highly executed mastery, creating a highly artistic images, performances, motion movies that became a property of the native culturally artistic heritage.[1]

The recipients are awarded a badge (40 mm high x 30 mm wide, made of silver)[2] and a certificate. The presentation must be conducted publicly. Past recipients include: